Summer in Southwest Idaho

SW Idaho’s 300+ days of sunshine and plentiful wide open spaces make it a golfer’s paradise.

Tamarack’s Osprey Meadows Golf Course

After a few years of being offline and a grand reopening, the expansive lake and mountain views, grin-inducing challenges, and well-maintained fairways and greens of Osprey Meadows Golf Course are back!

Located at the base of the four-season Tamarack Resort, Osprey Meadows features 18 fully restored holes, plus a surprising 19th “gambler’s hole.” There’s also a fully stocked pro shop, cart rentals, and a very friendly and helpful staff.

But the real showstopper here is the scenery. It’s a spectacular lakeside course with mountain and meadow vistas that seem to go on and on. The resort describes it this way:

“Designed seamlessly through two different terrains. Lakes, streams, wildflower meadows, wetlands, and groves of aspen characterize the first terrain, while the second consists of higher ground punctuated by stately ponderosa pines.

The solution to these challenges created a golf course that journeys between these two zones, using such design features as doglegs, split fairways, wetland cross hazards, dramatic waterfalls, and occasional island-style greens and fairways, as well as bridges and boardwalks, to tie the golf holes into a consistent whole.”​

Learn more at tamarackidaho.com.​

Par 3 Par-Tee​

Jug Mountain Ranch has added a new six-hole par 3 three designed by Don Knott, the original designer of the main Jug Mountain Ranch golf course.

Par 3s are great when you’re short on time or energy, want to increase your odds at that elusive hole-in-one, or are just looking to have a little fun. It’s perfect for family outings or for less experienced golfers.

Best of all, this new par 3 still takes advantage of the views and facilities at Jug Mountain Ranch, including a driving range, putting green, pro shop, and restaurant. Learn more at jugmountainranch.com.

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Photo credit: Jug Mountain Ranch
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But, Wait… There’s More​

• Learn more about SW Idaho golf regions in our Golf Guide.
• Get details on every course at golfinthenw.com.
• Find golf-adjacent fun at on our golf page.

Only In SW Idaho: AgVenture Trail Tours

Get up close and personal with SW Idaho’s agriculture, foodie, and wine culture on the AgVenture Trail, a self-guided route that winds through the agricultural landscapes of Idaho’s Snake River Valley.

Starting and ending in Downtown Caldwell, the AgVenture Trail leads you through farm stands, vineyards, and more in the surrounding countryside. Along the way, you’ll explore local farms and orchards bursting with fresh produce, inviting you to pluck fruits straight from the vine or tree. You’ll also have the opportunity to dine on farm-to-fork snacks (or even meals) crafted with the freshest ingredients, savoring each bite as you connect with the land and its stewards.

This year, in addition to the self-guided AgVenture route, you’re also invited to join Destination Caldwell AgVenture Trail Tours, where every step reveals a new story, and every moment is infused with the magic of Idaho’s agricultural bounty.

Learn more at destinationcaldwell.com.

Whitewater rafting is about a lot more than just thrills. It’s about experiencing nature’s grandeur, making memories with those you love, and so much more.

Whether you’re an experienced rafter or a newbie, there’s always a new whitewater experience waiting for you around the bend. Here are a few unique ideas for you to try this summer:

Horseshoe Bend Tubing: Cascade Raft & Kayak has a new type of wet and wild ride on the Main Payette River below all major rapids — river tubing! This stretch is warmer, calmer, and less crowded than elsewhere on the river. This experience puts you low to the water on your own tube, and lets the team at Cascade Raft & Kayak handle all the logistics, including drop-off, pick-up, and tube rental. And it’s all super affordable. Contact Cascade Raft & Kayak for details.

Hells Canyon: Experience the deepest gorge in North America! It’s big, fun water, plus lots of wildlife, fishing, and serenity. Try a rafting or jet boat tour with America’s Raft Company, Hells Canyon Adventures, and Hells Canyon Raft for a great experience.

Quick Trips: Just a short drive from Boise, you can be paddling with Bear Valley Rafting or Cascade Raft & Kayak on full- or half-day trips that range from high thrill to pretty dang chill.

Want more? Check these out:

• ​A Five-Day Adventure in Hells Canyon​
• Family-Friendly Floats​
• Whitewater Guide​